An overwhelming desire to see ‘Abdu’l-Baha...
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When in Bahá'í history
Chicago (today: Chicago, Illinois, USA)
When the news came that 'Abdu'l-Baha was on the way to
America, John Bosch
had such an overwhelming desire to see Him he started for New York on April 12,
1912. At Chicago, hearing that 'Abdu'l-Baha was in Washington, he went there
instead, only to find that 'Abdu'l-Baha had not yet left New York. So he
hurried on to that city, arriving very early on a cold and snowy morning. As
soon as he had secured his room in the Hotel Ansonia he stole to 'Abdu'l-Baha's
suite and was admitted almost immediately. Relating his experience to a friend,
he said:Source: Baha'i Stories Blog (https://bahaistories.blogspot.com/2015/08/an-overwhelming-desire-to-see-abdul-baha.html).
Discuss this story
For adults
- What stands out about 'Abdu'l-Bahá's response in this account?
- What in your own life does this story bring to mind?
- Where do you see devotion appearing — visibly or quietly — in this passage?
For teens
- If you were in 'Abdu'l-Bahá's place, what might you have done?
- What does this story teach about devotion?
Reflection
- Take one line from this story and let it stay with you today.
- What single image from this story will stay with you?
- How does devotion show up in your life right now — and where is it being asked of you?
Comprehension quiz
Which source is "An overwhelming desire to see ‘Abdu’l-Baha..." drawn from?
Where does this story take place?
What period of Bahá'í history does this story belong to?
Which historical figure is featured most prominently in this story?
Cite this story
Various. *Baha'i Stories Blog*. https://bahaistories.blogspot.com/2015/08/an-overwhelming-desire-to-see-abdul-baha.html
This story shares quotes with 94 other stories
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Also in
- 1844: A lonely youth’s encounter with Bahá’u’lláh by a roadside in Mazindaran and his amazing recognition of His station— Various, Baha'i Stories Blog
- 1848: Baha’u’llah describes the consternation that seized the Bábís when Tahirih suddenly appeared unveiled at the conference of Badasht— Various, Baha'i Stories Blog
- 1851 Karbilá, Iraq: A disciple of the Báb becomes the first person to whom Baha'u'llah confided His Divine Mission – as was prophesied by the Báb in 1848— Various, Baha'i Stories Blog
- A believer’s eagerness to provide financial assistance to Baha’u’llah – but chose a wrong method— Various, Baha'i Stories Blog
- A funny incident while in the company of the Master— Various, Baha'i Stories Blog
- …and 89 more
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